September 13, 2022
As the new director of AkzoNobel’s powder coating business, Jeff Jirak will be located at the company’s North American regional headquarters in Nashville, Tenn. For the last three years, Jirak held the position of chief commercial officer at Valtris Specialty Chemicals, and he has more than 30 years of experience in the performance materials and specialty chemicals sector.
He’ll lead the global strategic direction of AkzoNobel’s innovative powder coatings portfolio across a diverse range of end markets, including architectural, automotive, industrial, general trade coaters and functional.
“I’m delighted to be joining such a diverse business with passionate colleagues all over the world,” says Jirak. “It’s incredible to see the depth of technology and sustainability embedded in our powder coatings products. The business continues to invest in growth, our capacity and developing our talented people. I’m excited to play a key role in continuing to bring product innovations to our customers, as well as exploring new opportunities.”
Jirak previously held senior positions at DuPont, Chemours and Nouryon (formerly AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals), and specialized in the strategic growth of high-performance materials, polymers and coatings. He’ll apply this expertise to help drive innovation, sustainability and commercial excellence in his new role.
He succeeds Daniela Vlad, who is now director of AkzoNobel’s industrial coatings business.